Heavy Vintage Italian Romani Bianchi Mid-Century White Marble Ashtray (Italy, 1960s)

Crafted in the midst of the ‘Fumo’ century in Italy, this beautiful white marble handmade ashtray, was produced sometime during the 1960s when American cigarettes known in Italy as “le americane” were a la mode as they suggested urbanity, modernity and even wealth.

Imagine this though. In 1966, Mina Mazzini, an Italian pop singer, equated smoking with manliness  [‘If a man smells of smoke, yes, he is truly a man’ she sung in her ‘Fumo Blu’ hit]. This “Golden Age” of Italian smoking lasted from the 1960s to early 1980s and coincided with the post-war recovery and the consumer boom of Coca-Cola, chewing gum, jeans. If you want to learn more about this, I strongly recommend ‘Fumo: Italy’s Love Affair with the Cigarette by Carl Ipsen’ [great read].  

As the ashtray has been around for a whole now, it does has some scratches, some minor chipping on the rim [kindly check all pictures], and the very obvious browning in the center where the cigarette laid on the ashtray, but it’s still in excellent condition and can definitely tell many stories.  

Regardless whether you use this as an actual ashtray or sage or palo santo burner or even jewellery/trinket tray, making for a great gift! 

Product specifications

Country of manufacture — Italy

Condition —Excellent — This vintage/antique piece is in near original condition. It may show minimal traces of use.

Restoration and Damage Details — Patina consistent with age and use. Minor chipping on the edge [please check all pictures]

Material — Ceramic

Size —  Ø 17 cm